Name: Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod filets; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic (minced); 1 lemon (sliced into rounds); Chopped parsley (to garnish)

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If you’re searching for an unforgettable dinner that marries bold flavors with effortless preparation, this Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe should be your new go-to. Tender, flaky cod filets are bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce spiced just right with Cajun seasoning and paprika, then baked until perfectly juicy and flaky. This dish bursts with flavor while being wonderfully easy to pull together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Four pieces of raw white fish fillets are placed on a square piece of brown parchment paper in the center of the image. Around the fish are small white bowls containing bright yellow melted butter, minced garlic, red paprika powder, and brown seasoning. There is a small white round plate with five thin lemon slices on the top right. Two white salt and pepper shakers are on the top left, and a small bunch of green parsley is on the left edge. All items are on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to elevating any recipe, and this one is no exception. Each component plays an important role, from the creamy butter that enriches the fish to the Cajun seasoning that brings that irresistible kick of warmth and depth.

4 cod filets: Choose fresh, firm cod for the best texture and mild flavor.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat to enhance flavor.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural taste of the fish.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Creates a silky sauce that keeps the cod moist and flavorful.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps blend the spices and butter, adding a fruity richness.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Delivers that signature bold and smoky flavor characteristic of Cajun cooking.
1 teaspoon paprika: Deepens both aroma and color with a gentle smoky sweetness.
1 teaspoon garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic intensity that’s downright addictive.
1 lemon (sliced into rounds): Brightens the dish and adds visual appeal with a zesty freshness.
Chopped parsley (to garnish): Offers a burst of color and a touch of herbal brightness on top.

How to Make Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature ensures the cod cooks evenly and develops a tender, flaky texture without drying out. While the oven warms up, pat the cod filets dry with a kitchen towel—drying helps the seasoning stick and prevents the fish from steaming in the oven.

Step 2: Season Your Cod

Sprinkle the cod filets with the ground black pepper and salt, seasoning both sides lightly but thoroughly. This foundational seasoning enhances the delicate flavor of the fish and sets the stage for the bold Cajun spices to shine.

Step 3: Mix the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and minced garlic. This sauce brings richness, spice, and aromatic garlic punch all in one luscious pour-over. The combination is where the magic of this Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe truly starts to take shape.

Step 4: Layer the Lemon and Cod

Arrange the lemon slices evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. These slices not only add a subtle citrus fragrance but also keep the fish elevated to avoid sticking and create a beautiful presentation. Place each seasoned cod filet on top of the lemon rounds.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the garlic butter Cajun mixture generously over the cod filets, ensuring they’re well coated. Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The cod will turn opaque and start to flake easily when it’s perfectly cooked. Resist the urge to overbake for the best texture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, carefully transfer the cod to a serving plate. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness. Add extra lemon slices on the side, and your dish is ready for the table.

How to Serve Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe

A white plate holds a simple dish with two main parts: a row of green asparagus spears arranged horizontally at the back, and in front, a small pile of seared scallops. The scallops are pale white with a golden-brown crust on the sides, sprinkled with small bits of chopped green herbs and tiny garlic pieces. Some orange-brown oil or sauce is puddled slightly beneath the scallops, adding a glossy shine. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, and a small sprig of green herb is seen in the lower right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley isn’t just pretty—it adds a lively, slightly peppery contrast to the rich butter sauce. A few lemon wedges on the side also invite guests to squeeze on extra citrus juice, balancing the seasoning perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think fluffy rice, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter asparagus are also excellent companions, complementing the warmth and spice without overpowering the cod.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cod on a bed of fluffy quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthy twist. For a fun dinner party, plate each filet atop slices of toasted baguette with a drizzle of the buttery sauce to soak up all those Cajun flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover baked cod should be cooled completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.

Freezing

While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked cod wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the cod in an oven-safe dish and warm it uncovered at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. This gentle heat helps keep the fish moist without overcooking or drying out the delicate flesh.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod’s mild flavor and flaky texture work wonderfully here, you can use similar white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut. Just adjust the baking time slightly depending on thickness.

How spicy is this Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe?

The Cajun seasoning adds a warm, savory heat without being overwhelmingly spicy. You can always adjust by reducing the seasoning or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like more kick.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Cajun seasoning does not contain any hidden gluten ingredients—always check the label to be certain.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can mix the garlic butter sauce and season the cod ahead of time but bake right before serving for the best texture and fresh flavor.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay pairs beautifully. These wines complement the buttery sauce and balance the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about a dish that comes together effortlessly yet delivers layers of wonderful flavor, and this Baked Garlic Butter Cajun Cod Recipe does exactly that. From the rich garlic butter to the lively Cajun spices, every bite is a celebration of taste. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try soon and enjoy that perfect, flaky cod as much as I do!